Germany has downplayed the possibility of the United States taking military action to seize Greenland, despite President Donald Trump’s repeated threats against the Danish territory.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul described the idea of unilateral US action as not serious after his meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday.
According to Wadephul, he has seen no indication that military action is actually being considered. On the contrary, he said, the countries involved share a common interest in ensuring security in the Arctic region.
“Security issues in the Arctic need to be addressed collectively. NATO is currently drawing up a more detailed plan and this will be discussed with our US partners,” he explained.
Wadephul’s visit to Washington comes as the US is scheduled to hold talks this week with senior Danish and Greenland diplomats, also led by Rubio.
In his latest statement, Trump reiterated his desire for the US to take over Greenland, whether through diplomatic means or more forceful methods.
However, the Greenland government on Monday reiterated its firm stance that it would not accept any form of US takeover, under any circumstances.
Greenland and NATO have also said that efforts are underway to strengthen defenses in the Arctic region, which is now the focus of global concern.
Trump has previously claimed that increased Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic justifies the US need to control Greenland.
At the same time, he has also openly expressed a desire to expand the influence and territory controlled by the United States.
